Who was Robert Redford? Hollywood icon dies at 89

Robert Redford, the legendary Hollywood actor and activist, has passed away at the age of 89 at his home in Utah on Tuesday morning.

Cindi Berger, head of the publicity firm Rogers & Cowan PMK, confirmed the news in a statement to The New York Times, noting that the acclaimed star “passed away in his sleep.” While the exact cause of death remains unclear, his passing has marked the end of an era in American cinema.

Born in Santa Monica, California, in 1936, Redford’s career spanned over six decades. After studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, he made his Broadway debut in Tall Story (1959), playing a basketball player. He went on to earn fame with roles in Inside Daisy Clover, This Property Is Condemned, The Chase, The Great Gatsby, and The Way We Were.

Known for his striking looks and progressive politics, Redford also made a mark with politically charged films such as The Candidate and All the President’s Men, which reflected his commitment to social causes. He later founded the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival, providing a platform for independent cinema often overlooked by mainstream studios.

Redford’s last acting appearance was a cameo in AMC’s Dark Winds (2022), following his role as Secretary Alexander Pierce in Avengers: Endgame.

Over his career, he earned two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement, cementing his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most influential figures.